You can help killer whale/orca
If you find a stranded dolphin:
When boating in the vicinity of killer whales, common sense rules apply and regulations exist so as disturbance and danger are minimised.
Orca are predators with quite a reputation, but no records exist of deliberate fatal attacks on humans. It still pays however, to show respect around these animals. General rules are outlined below:
- Operate your boat slowly and quietly at "no wake" speed
- Manoeuvre your boat sensitively near dolphins. Do not obstruct their path, cut through a group or separate mothers from calves
- Avoid sudden noises that could startle the animals
- Co-operate with others so all may see the dolphins without putting them at risk
Orca swimming at Raglan, Waikato
Aircraft should also maintain a safe distance of at least 150 metres from killer whales and should not fly directly overhead.
Keep their environment clean by carefully disposing of any rubbish in appropriate receptacle, plastic waste can be particularly hazardous when discarded near waterways or beaches.
Sightings of killer whales can be reported to the 0800 DOC HOTline (0800 362 468). These are always of interest and help increase our knowledge of cetacean distribution and movements around New Zealand. Useful information includes species/description, location, number of individuals, estimated sizes, what they appeared to be doing and the direction in which they were headed. The Orca Project also like to know when killer whales visit. They can be contacted on 0800 SEE ORCA (0800 733 6722).
If you see set nets being used within closed areas then contact the Ministry of Fisheries on 0800 4 POACHER (0800 4 76224).
If you accidentally catch or harm a dolphin you have a legal obligation to report it as soon as possible, but within 48 hours, to DOC or MFish.
back to top